Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to Silas Casey
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.008 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: Hartford, Connecticut Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 October 1861 Pagination: 2 p. Order a Copy
Writes to General Casey about the position of Aide de Camp. Says he would like to meet with General Casey in Washington but regrets that he will be unable to make it as his regiment is being ordered to Hempstead. Does not believe he is knowledgeable enough for the position but would like to learn. This letter is a first draft of the letter that Coit actually sent to General Casey. He enclosed the draft in the 12 October letter to his family. Writes from the United States Hotel.
Hartford, Oct 11 '61 Gen Casey
Dear Sir I have rec'd letters from home enclosing a line from Rev. L Grosevenor dated 9 inst which states that "Gen Casey is still waiting the appearance of Charles to see about appointing him an Aid. Please write Charles to seek him out in Washington" As our regiment, the eighth, is ordered to Hempstead, I think, it will be impossible for me to visit Washington i think this called for an answer from me. I regret this change in my direction & time, for it would give me much pleasure to call upon you in W. though as I have no military knowledge I am doubtful whether you would consider me the one for the position of Aid de camp. then I could also be acquainted the duties of an AiC so that I would know if they would be as agreeable to me as my present duties. we have had no battalion drills or dress parade as yet, we are to commence regular Guard Mounting tomorrow, therefor I know very little of an Adjutants business, but col. Harland, with whom I have been quite intimately acquainted with for three years, assures me that I will have no difficulty in learning the duties & I have found him always ready to help me. I look forward to the first dress parade with much trepidation. I have written this fully that my present position might be entirely understood. This appointment was received without any solicitation for my part and I have written this with many thanks for your kindness in considering my name at all I am with highest respect. Your obedient servant Charles Coit
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